Shock Add Cleveland Pratt as Assistant Head Coach
September 28, 2015 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Spokane Shock News Release
SPOKANE, Washington (September 28, 2015) - The Shock have announced the addition of Cleveland Pratt to their 2016 coaching staff as Assistant Head Coach and Director of Player Development.
Pratt will be entering his eleventh season of coaching after spending the last seven years with the Tri-Cities Fever, six of which were under Head Coach Adam Shackleford.
"Two of the most important qualities that I look for in both players and coaches are character and commitment," said Head Coach Adam Shackleford. "Coach Pratt has been a great member of my staff over the past six seasons. I know what I can expect from him and that is he will make us a better football team."
In seven total seasons with the Fever, Pratt served in multiple positions within the coaching staff. In 2007 under Head Coach Tony Wells while the Fever were in the af2, Pratt served as offensive coordinator and the defensive backs coach. He held that same position under Head Coach Pat O'Hara in 2009.
In 2010, Head Coach Adam Shackleford joined Tri-Cities for the franchise's first season as a member of the IFL. Pratt served as the team's defensive backs coach and special teams coordinator for their next three seasons (2010-12). During the 2013 and 2014 seasons, Pratt took over as defensive coordinator and continued as the special teams coordinator. Last year, he stepped into the role of assistant head coach, co-offensive coordinator, and assistant director of player personnel.
Prior to joining the Fever back in 2007, Pratt coached for two seasons (2005-06) as the co-offensive coordinator for the Miami Morays of the National Indoor Football League.
"I am flattered and honored that Coach Shack has asked me to re-join him. We've had a lot of success in the past and I'm looking forward to bringing another championship to the city of Spokane," said Pratt. "Coach Shack has told me many good things about the fans here and the love that the city has for Shock football. I look forward to having a great season and sharing the experience with the loyal fan base."
Pratt played a total of six seasons in the Arena Football League, playing for Miami (1995), Florida (1996-99), and Grand Rapids (2000). In six seasons he caught 195 passes for 2,372 yards with 35 touchdowns, including 82 receptions for 1,094 yards and 18 touchdowns with Florida in 1996. He had six rushing touchdowns and added 210 kick returns for 3,941 yards and six scores.
Pratt played his collegiate career at Edinboro University (PA) where he earned a B.A. in communications and TV productions. He was inducted into Edinboro's athletics Hall of Fame in 2014 for football and men's track and field. He still holds the school records for career kickoff returns (76), career kickoff return yards (1,844), and longest kickoff return (100 yards), along with most kickoff returns for touchdowns (3). In track & field, Pratt was a five-time PSAC individual champion while competing in the 100, 400 and long jump. He earned All-American honors in the long jump in 1990. He is originally from North Miami Beach, Florida where he graduated from North Miami Beach High School. Pratt is the oldest of twelve siblings.
Indoor Football League Stories from September 28, 2015
- Weekly Sports League and Franchise Report - OSC Original by Dan Krieger
- Shock Add Cleveland Pratt as Assistant Head Coach - Spokane Shock
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